Amritsar, April 02: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) passed a resolution on Tuesday opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, asserting that any changes to minority affairs should be made with community consensus.
SAD leader Daljit S. Cheema reaffirmed the party’s support for Muslim rights, stating, “Minorities are an important part of India, and no law should be passed without their consent.” He criticized the bill’s provisions, particularly the inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf Boards, comparing it to what he called the “takeover” of the Hazur Sahib Board in Nanded.
“The government increased nominations in the Hazur Sahib Board and took control. Now, a similar pattern is emerging for our Muslim brothers. This must stop immediately,” Cheema said.
The Takhat Sri Hazur Sahib Board oversees the management of gurdwaras in Nanded, while the Takhat Patna Sahib Board functions under Bihar government administration.
Cheema warned against granting excessive powers to officials in Waqf matters, stating, “Without community consultation, such decisions create unease. If trust is broken, it harms minorities across the country.”
During the meeting, SAD also condemned the recent vandalism of B.R. Ambedkar’s statue in Jalandhar’s Phillaur area, calling it a “conspiracy” to incite communal discord. “Derogatory slogans were written outside the statue, followed by a video from abroad with abusive remarks about Baba Saheb. This is a cowardly act and a deliberate attempt to disturb Punjab’s harmony,” Cheema said.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill is set for introduction in Parliament on Wednesday. Political parties, including the BJP, Congress, TDP, JD(U), and Samajwadi Party, have issued whips mandating MP attendance.
TDP’s press release stated, “All MPs must be present in the Lok Sabha on April 2 for the discussion on the Waqf Bill.” Similarly, the BJP informed its Rajya Sabha MPs about crucial legislative matters scheduled for April 3.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju confirmed the bill’s tabling after Question Hour, followed by an eight-hour discussion, subject to extension.
